Canada Sets Goal to Become First Country in the World to Eliminate Cervical Cancer

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) has issued a challenge to Canadians to be the first country in the world to eradicate cervical cancer. The statement was made in a speech on Parliament Hill today to mark the first day of the second annual HPV Prevention Week, being held this year from October 1-7.

“The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is responsible for almost all cases of cervical cancer. But it can also lead to anal cancer, vaginal and vulvar cancers, penile cancers and mouth and throat cancers,” says Dr. Jennifer Blake, CEO, SOGC. “Since three out of every four Canadians will have HPV at some time in their life, the SOGC wants men and women to understand that the formula to fight HPV and eradicate cervical cancer is within our grasp.”

The SOGC is made up of front-line health professionals in women’s sexual and reproductive health including gynaecologists, obstetricians, family physicians, nurses, and midwives. Dr. Blake today announced the following unanimous statement from the SOGC Board on the role that Canada can play as a world leader in fighting HPV:

The SOGC calls for Canada to become the first country to eliminate cervical cancer;

That this be achieved for the next generation through gender neutral vaccination, cervical cancer screening and early treatment, and;

The SOGC, through our global initiatives and our advocacy, will work to ensure that all women are able to benefit from Canada’s leadership in the global drive to eliminate cervical cancer.

“The combination of vaccination, cervical cancer screening and early treatment are all significant steps to prevent HPV infections and HPV-related cancers,” adds Dr. Blake. “Weeks like this are necessary to remind everyone to put safe sexual practices and habits in place.”

HPV Prevention Week is a collaboration between The Federation of Medical Women of Canada (FMWC) and The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC), with support from Merck Canada.